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While the precise cause of many headaches remains unknown, several theories exist. The causes of a headache vary depending on the type of headache.

Tension Headache

Tension headache
refers to head pain associated with stress and muscle contraction. These headaches may occur only occasionally in response to a stressful event. They may also be chronic, occurring frequently. Some tension headaches are nearly constant, with daily pain that may vary in intensity. Tension headaches occur when muscles in the neck, face, and scalp contract and produce pain. The precise cause of this muscle contraction is unknown, but stress,
anxiety
,
depression
, eyestrain, and other factors may contribute.

Migraine

Migraine
is a type of recurring headache that involves blood vessels, nerves, and brain chemicals. Sensations such as visual changes, called auras, may precede a migraine. The International Headache Society has a system that classifies migraines as one of two types: migraine occurring with an aura (formerly called “classic”) and migraine occurring without an aura (formerly called “common").
Migraines may occur several times a week or once every couple of years. Migraines may be so severe that they interfere with your ability to work and carry on normal activities.

An internal or external trigger sets off a process that results in migraine headaches. The exact trigger is often unknown. It is possible that the nervous system reacts to the trigger by conducting electrical activity that spreads across the brain. It leads to the release of brain chemicals, which help regulate pain.

Cluster Headache

Cluster headache
is a type of severe, recurring pain that is located on one side of the head. It received its name from the clustering or pattern of frequent headaches that usually occur.

There are two main types of cluster headaches. Either type of headache may convert to the other type:

Episodic cluster headaches—(80% of all cases) occur one or more times daily for several months. The headaches then enter a period of remission and come back months or years later.

Chronic cluster headaches—(20% of all cases) occur almost daily with, at most, one headache-free month during a year.

The cause of cluster headaches is unknown.

Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches
are associated with inflammation of the sinuses (called
sinusitis
). The sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull. Colds and allergies cause inflammation of the nasal passages and can lead to sinusitis. Allergies and viral upper respiratory infections increase nasal secretions and cause tissue lining the nasal passages to swell. This results in nasal congestion and stuffiness. The nasal passages become blocked and normal drainage cannot occur. Secretions that are trapped in the sinuses may become infected with bacteria or, rarely, fungus. The swollen tissues or infection may create pain and pressure.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.